timbre
TEEM-bray
/ˈtim.bɾe/
Timbre meaning a doorbell, the device on a door used to announce a visitor.
timbre(Noun)
doorbell
?The device on a door
bell
?Any small, electrical ringing device
,buzzer
?A general ringing sound
📝 In Action
Toca el timbre para avisar que llegaste.
A1Ring the doorbell to let them know you arrived.
El timbre de mi casa no funciona, tienes que llamar a la puerta.
A2My house's doorbell doesn't work, you have to knock on the door.
⭐ Usage Tips
Action Verb
To talk about the action of using the doorbell, always use the verb 'tocar' (to touch/ring).
Timbre referring to the distinctive tone quality of a sound or voice.
timbre(Noun)
timbre
?Tone quality of a sound or voice
tone quality
?Acoustics/Music
,voice quality
?Vocal characteristic
📝 In Action
Su voz tiene un timbre muy dulce y reconocible.
B1Her voice has a very sweet and recognizable timbre (tone quality).
El violín y el chelo tienen timbres distintos, aunque toquen la misma nota.
B2The violin and the cello have distinct timbres, even if they play the same note.
💡 Grammar Points
What Timbre Means
This meaning of 'timbre' refers to the unique characteristic that makes a particular sound or voice recognizable, separate from its pitch or loudness.
Timbre as a revenue stamp or official tax stamp used on documents.
📝 In Action
Necesitas comprar un timbre fiscal para validar este contrato.
B2You need to buy a revenue stamp to validate this contract.
El abogado revisó que el documento tuviera el timbre oficial.
C1The lawyer checked that the document had the official seal.
💡 Grammar Points
Timbre vs. Sello
While both can mean 'stamp,' 'timbre' usually refers specifically to the official or tax fee required on government or legal documents. Use 'sello' or 'estampilla' for postal stamps.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: timbre
Question 1 of 2
Which meaning of 'timbre' is used when describing a famous singer's unique voice?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'timbre' the same as 'sello'?
Not exactly. While both mean 'stamp,' 'timbre' usually refers to an official or tax stamp required on legal documents. 'Sello' is much broader and is used for postal stamps or general rubber stamps.
How do I know which meaning of 'timbre' is being used?
Context is key! If you are at a door, it's the doorbell. If you are talking about music or voices, it's the tone quality. If you are discussing contracts or legal papers, it's the official stamp.